Families seeking long-term stability and EU citizenship options often ask an important question: If my child is born in Portugal, can they become a Portuguese citizen at birth?

For those holding valid Portuguese residence permits — including under the Golden Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, or other residency categories — the answer is often yes. Portugal offers one of the most inclusive legal frameworks in Europe when it comes to nationality rights for children born on its soil.

Legal Basis

Under the Portuguese Nationality Act (Lei da Nacionalidade), as amended in recent years, children born in Portugal to foreign parents may be granted citizenship at birth if at least one parent has been legally resident in Portugal for a minimum of one year prior to the child’s birth.

This provision applies regardless of nationality or visa type. What matters is that the parent holds a valid Portuguese residence permit — whether temporary or permanent — that was issued at least 12 months before the birth takes place.

Who Qualifies?

The law currently includes the following categories of parents:

• Golden Visa residents
• Digital Nomad Visa holders
• D7 Passive Income or Retirement Visa holders
• HQA Visa holders (Highly Qualified Activity)
• Other long-term residence permit holders

The residence permit must be valid and lawfully issued under Portugal’s immigration framework. Physical presence is not strictly required, though maintaining a real link with Portugal can strengthen the process.

No Need for Citizenship of Parents

One of the most progressive aspects of Portuguese law is that citizenship of the parents is not required. A child born in Portugal can be granted nationality even if both parents are foreign nationals, so long as the one-year legal residency threshold is met.

Process Overview

To register the child as a Portuguese citizen:

• The child must be born in Portugal, with the birth registered at the civil registry (Conservatória do Registo Civil).
• At least one parent must provide proof of one year of legal residence at the time of birth.
• Supporting documentation (residence card, passport, and proof of legal entry/residence) is submitted alongside the birth registration.
• If all requirements are met, citizenship is granted at birth, and the child is issued a Portuguese birth certificate.

Why This Matters

For international families establishing a base in Portugal, this provision offers a clear path to secure EU citizenship for future generations. Children who acquire Portuguese nationality at birth will enjoy full rights as EU citizens — including freedom of movement, access to education, and healthcare across the European Union.

It also enables a smoother integration process for the family and may support the parents’ own long-term residence and naturalisation in Portugal.

How Coates Global Can Help

At Coates Global, we specialise in residency and citizenship planning tailored to your family’s goals. Whether you’re entering Portugal through the Golden Visa, launching a startup via the Digital Nomad route, or weighing future plans for your children’s citizenship, our team can provide step-by-step legal support.

If you’re considering giving birth in Portugal or wish to ensure your future child’s eligibility for citizenship, we recommend discussing your timing, residency history, and documentation well in advance.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us help you build your family’s future in Portugal with clarity and confidence.